Abstract

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to assess the long-term quality of life (QOL) after the resection of a primary pancreatic cyst and to determine predictors of outcome. Secondary outcomes were pancreatic function and survival.

Methods

One hundred eight consecutive patients, who underwent resection between 1992 and 2007 and had nearly 60 months follow-up, were reviewed. Questionnaires and function tests were collected during scheduled outpatient clinic visits.

After cyst resection, long-term QOL is equal to healthy references, pancreatic insufficiency is prevalent but does not impair QOL, and survival relates positive compared with solid pancreatic adenocarcinoma. The excellent long-term outcome justifies proceeding with surgery once a medical indication for resection has been established.